Top places in Vientiane

Home to a free permanent exhibition about UXO in Laos, stories from survivors and information on the significant services offered by COPE, the Museum Cooperative Orthotic and Prosthetic Enterprise that is a locally operated non-profit organization working with partners to provide rehabilitation conditions for Unexploded Ordnance (UXO) survivors and other disabled people throughout Laos. Interactive representation, spectacular documentaries and lively images provide a stimulating experience to visitors. You can also have a good chance to support COPE by buying souvenirs at the gift shop or donation.

Opened in 2008 by COPE, Visitor Center operates with the goal of increasing knowledge of the disability in Laos and stresses the stunning work that is being worked to help disable people to have full and productive lives. The unexploded ordnance (UXO) matter in Laos and the way it links in with disability are also presented here. Public open all days during a week from 9:00-18:00 the Visitor Center is suitable for people at all ages. Laos travel packages

Wat Mixai

Wat Mixai source: tripadvisor.com

Also known as the Temple of Victory constituted during the reign of King Sai Setthathirat (1550-1571), Wat Mixai was built to celebrate the victory of the struggle over the Burmese troops in Lao-Burma war during the 16th century. Restored in the early 1900s and featuring a Central Thai style of religious architecture, this temple is a must-visit destination on your trip to Vientiane. Thanks to its strategic location right in the heart of Vientiane, Wat Mixai offers the Buddhist community who gather here four times a month, during the days of Buddhist reverence.

The imposing columns specially decorated in red and gold while the mural on the ceiling depicting the lives of the Buddha coming with a huge presiding Buddha are located in the main, high-ceilinged hall. Tourists also can find many small stupas and sculptures of mythical animals and devils in the temple grounds.

Just across the Mekong River, this temple seems to be an exact replica of the traditional form and style of Thai temples. Therefore, playing an important role as a part of the temple tours where visitors can see the Buddhist daily life, the Wat Mixai is well worth a visit.

That Dam (Black Stupa)

That Dam – source: vientianehostel.com

Well known as the ‘Black Stupa’, That Dam was believed by many locals to have once inhabited by a dragon having seven heads and to stand to protect the city from the intimidation of the Siamese. Serving as an amazing memorial to these terrible acts in the past, the crumbling and weather-worn That Dam stands abandoned, uncared and un-loved. There are no glittering embellishments typical of the same establishments in neighboring Southeast Asian countries; no worshippers come here to pray.

Nevertheless, That Dam is still regarded as the guardian spirit of the city by the Lao. Legend, fairy tales, folklore, and history all cooperate to make this an attractive and charming spot to visit. It makes a change from most religious destinations in nearby Thailand, for example, where stupas and temples are endlessly reconstructed and rebuilt.